To keep clothes clean, it is counterproductive to load freshly washed clothes in a tumble dryer that smells bad. Why is my tumble dryer smelling so bad? If clothing is left damp too long, mould and mildew can form. These can linger in tumble dryer drums. Find out why your tumble dryer smells and how to get rid of it.
Help! Help!
Air drying clothes is a temporary solution. However, odour elimination and keeping tumble dryers functional are crucial. Here’s how to do it with simple cleaning steps and a list of materials. To combat odour, it is important to understand why your tumble dryer smells.
Why your tumble dryer smells bad
Tumble dryer odour can be caused by a variety of factors, including a lack or improper use of care and maintenance.
These are common reasons why tumble dryers stink:
- Damp clothes: Allowing damp clothing in the tumble dryer or washing machine can encourage mould growth. Both clothes can be left in the tumble dryer drum after they are dry, which can cause odour.
- Pests in dryer vents: Is it possible for my tumble dryer to smell like something has died? If an animal passes through the vents or ducts, their odours may worsen.
- Lint buildup is when lint builds up in tumble dryer vents. This reduces air circulation and allows odours to persist. A slow drying time in your tumble dryer is another sign of restricted airflow. The tumble dryer can smell bad if it has a lingering odour from lint.
How to Clean a Smelly Tumble Dryer
A thorough cleaning of your tumble dryer can remove bad odours.
Here are the essentials:
- Use a clean rag
- Towels
- Bleach
- Water
- White vinegar
These are the cleaning steps to follow after you have turned off your tumble dryer’s power.
Step 1: Clean out the lint trap
Clean the lint trap by using a clean cloth. To remove small particles, use a narrow hose attachment on a vacuum. Run the trap under running water and scrub it with a soft brush. Let it air dry.
Step 2: Clean out the lint trap housing
The vacuum hose attachment can be used to remove any accumulated dirt and lint from the trap’s housing while it is drying. Vacuum also the area around the tumble dryer, especially under the vent.
Step 3: Clean dryer vent
Disconnect the vent and move the tumble dryer from the wall. To remove any lint or foreign objects, vacuum the vent. You should also clean the vent openings and flaps outside of your house. Connect the tumble dryer to the dryer’s interior vent.
Step 4: Clean the dryer’s inside
Use 1 cup bleach to dilute 1 gallon of water on a towel. You can also dip the towel into white vinegar. You can also wipe down the tumble dryer drum using the towel. If necessary, dip it in the bleach solution or vinegar several times. Before allowing the tumble dryer to air dry, clean the dryer door seal and the latch. You can reduce the smell of vinegar or bleach by dampening a second towel with water, and then drying the tumble dryer once more.
Step 5: Clean the exterior
If your tumble dryer smells, don’t forget to clean the exterior. Lint and dirt can build up on the exterior. Before you restore the tumble dryer’s power, wipe down the tumble dryer’s exterior with a damp cloth.
Tips to Prevent Tumble Dryer Odours
A simple maintenance routine can help prevent tumble dryers from returning to their original state. These tumble dryer maintenance tips will help you keep bad odours at bay.
- Take damp clothes out quickly. This will prevent mould and mildew.
- Dry damp clothing immediately after the wash cycle has ended.
- Before drying, clean the lint trap with your hands or a paper towel. The trap and its housing should be cleaned with a vacuum hose attachment.
- To remove lint and other debris, clean dryer vents every year. If tumble dryers dry clothes too fast or have bad odours, you may need to clean them less often.
Are your tumble dryer still producing bad odours? You may need a professional evaluation.
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